Breastfeeding Positions

Five Breastfeeding Positions

Laid Back Position

• This position is gaining popularity
• It can be especially helpful for women with a heavy flow of milk or a forceful letdown.
• Recline back to about a 45 degree angle (as if sitting in a recliner chair).
• Place baby on your stomach with his head at your chest.
• Place baby’s mouth over your nipple, or allow baby to self-attach to breast.
• Gravity should help the baby get a deep latch.

Cradle Hold

Cross Cradle Hold

• These are probably the most common and natural positions for most women.
• Place a pillow (or pillows) in your lap.
• Put your baby on his side, on the pillow, tummy-to-tummy with you.
• Rest his head on your forearm with his nose in front of your nipple.
• If using the cross-cradle, hold your baby’s head with the opposite hand. (if baby is feeding on left breast, hold baby’s head with right hand)
• Tuck his lower arm under your breast.

Football Hold

• Place a pillow (or stick pillows) at your side.
• Put your baby on the pillow with her legs tucked under your arm, like you’re carrying a football.
• Slide your forearm under your baby’s back and support her head with your hand.
• Do not hunch over, have enough support to hold baby up to your nipple while sitting up straight.

Lying Down

• Lie on your side with your knees bent. You may want to place pillows between your knees, under your head and neck, and behind your back. Get comfortable
• Put your baby on his side, facing your nipple.
• Place your other arm, a pillow or a rolled-up blanket behind your baby for support.